Colorectal Cancer Education and Awareness Month is observed in March every year. Its goal is to spread information about colorectal cancer and make people aware of the illness. Colorectal cancer is especially dangerous because it does not show any early signs and symptoms. Symptoms can only be seen when it has advanced to the late stage, but usually, by then, it is too late. This makes colorectal cancer very hard to catch in the early stage from symptoms alone. Educating people and spreading awareness encourages them to go for routine screenings and increases their chances of catching it in the early stages.
History of Colorectal Cancer Education and Awareness Month
Colorectal cancer begins in the rectum or the colon and spreads to different parts of the body. Depending on their positions, these can be called colon or rectal cancer, but they are often combined to form colorectal cancer since they are quite similar. A lot of significant progress has been made in preventing, detecting, and treating colorectal cancer. Since the 1970s, the general mortality rate for colorectal cancer in the U.S. has decreased by 40% due to increased awareness.
In the 21st century, colorectal cancer has also contributed to the development of molecularly targeted therapies. Employing these treatment methods to get rid of malignant tumors can help increase the patient’s lifespan by several months. Many researchers are still trying to develop new treatments and drugs to help cure cancer and allow the patient to live a long life.
In 2003, the F.D.A. approved the first oral chemotherapy drug that improves the efficiency of colorectal cancer treatment in the U.S. A drug called Capecitabine (Xeloda) was approved for patients whose cancer has spread to other parts of their bodies. This pill can easily be swallowed by a patient who has just undergone surgery. The drug proved to be more effective than traditional chemotherapy. Since the cause of colorectal cancer has still not been discovered, it is best to go for colon screenings every year to be safe and healthy.
Colorectal Cancer Education and Awareness Month timeline
Dr. Aldred Warthin begins to study a hereditary colorectal family after looking at a suspected case of colorectal cancer.
In his first report, he documents a type of gynecological cancer spreading to the colon.
H.T. Lynch and A.J. Krush study the hereditary colorectal family extensively and connect the occurrence of colorectal cancer to Lynch Syndrome.
Researchers find that the longer it takes a doctor to perform a colonoscopy, the more effective they are at finding colon cancers.
Colorectal Cancer Education and Awareness Month FAQs
When should you screen for colon cancer?
You should screen for colorectal cancer regularly from when you turn 45 to 75 years.
What ribbon is for colon cancer?
Colorectal Cancer Education and Awareness Month uses the dark blue ribbon to represent itself. The ribbon helps to spread the word as well.
Why is colon cancer blue?
The symbol of the Blue Star was presented in 2004 by the Roundtable to denote the fight against colorectal cancer. It stands as a tribute to the lives of people that have been lost due to colorectal cancer. Together, the star and the blue ribbon form a human shape.
How to Observe Colorectal Cancer Education and Awareness Month
Schedule a screening
The best way to observe this month is to book a screening right away. The earlier you get it done, the better.
Spread awareness
This month is all about spreading awareness. Make sure you post resources and information online and spread information by word-of-mouth to friends and family.
Donate to those in need
Your donation can go a long way to help save a life. Find a cancer patient in need of money for their treatment and donate.
5 Important Facts About Colorectal Cancer
It has become a prevalent disease
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death.
It affects everyone equally
Colorectal cancer affects everyone equally, regardless of race and gender.
The risk increases with age
People above 50 years face a bigger risk of getting colorectal cancer.
Must go for screening at 45
The American Cancer Society states that everyone should start screening for cancer at 45 years.
Cancer rates decreasing
Due to the spread of awareness about early screening, colorectal cancer rates have decreased in the U.S.
Why Colorectal Cancer Education and Awareness Month is Important
It can save someone’s life
Spreading awareness about colorectal cancer is necessary. Early screening and intervention can save a person’s life.
It puts your health first
This month helps us prioritize our health again. We must take care of ourselves to live a long and healthy life.
It makes you more aware
This month is all about raising awareness and putting our health first. So, make sure you have your priorities set.
Colorectal Cancer Education and Awareness Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | March 1 | Sunday |
| 2027 | March 1 | Monday |
| 2028 | March 1 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | March 1 | Thursday |
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